Dicyanotricyclodecane

Abstract

A mixture of 3,8- and 4,8-dicyanotricyclo[5.2.1.0]decane is prepared by the hydrocyanation of 8-cyanotricyclo[5.2.1.0]dec-3-ene in the presence of a catalyst system comprising a zero valent nickel complex, free of carbon monoxide, a promoting amount of a metal compound such as zinc chloride and a hydroxy-containing aryl compound such as p-cresol as a solvent.

We claim: 
     
       1. A mixture of dicyanotricyclodecane isomers comprising 3,8-dicyanotricyclo[5.2.1.0]decane and 4,8-dicyanotricyclo[5.2.1.0]decane. 
     
     
       2. A mixture of dicyanotricyclodecane isomers in accordance with claim 1 in which the isomers comprise about 50 mol percent 3,8-dicyanotricyclo[5.2.1.0]decane and about 50 mol percent 4,8-dicyanotricyclo[5.2.1.0]decane.